First Shots

The good news is that kids get a lot of the shots they need by age 2. So if you're old enough to read this article, you've already had most of your shots! After that, a kid doesn't need many more.

There are a few shots given when kids are between the ages of 4 and 6 years. The next set of shots isn't usually until kids are about 11 or 12 years old.

Most kids should have a

First Shots

The good news is that kids get a lot of the shots they need by age 2. So if you're old enough to read this article, you've already had most of your shots! After that, a kid doesn't need many more.

There are a few shots given when kids are between the ages of 4 and 6 years. The next set of shots isn't usually until kids are about 11 or 12 years old.

Most kids should have a each year. Some kids will get it as a shot, and some will get it with a spray in the nose.

Why Do Kids Need Shots?

Shots are great for individual kids because it means that they won't get those serious diseases. But shots are great for the health of the country and world, too. How? When almost all kids have received these shots, it means that these illnesses don't have much of a chance to make anyone sick.

Because most kids in the United States get all their shots, you rarely meet anyone who has had diseases like measles or mumps. Your mom or dad has probably had to show your school that you've had all your shots. Schools and camps do this because they don't want the kids spreading or catching serious illnesses.

My Aching Arm!

OK, it's true. Getting a shot can a little. But the pain usually comes and goes pretty quickly. If you cry, don't worry about it. Lots of kids do.

To make shots easier to take, try bringing your favorite teddy bear or asking your mom or dad to hold your hand while you're getting a shot. Afterward, you may even get a little treat if you're brave! Maybe your doctor gives out stickers or your mom and dad will take you to the playground.

It's OK if you don't like shots, but remember that they are your best shot at staying healthy!

each year. Some kids will get it as a shot, and some will get it with a spray in the nose.

Why Do Kids Need Shots?

Shots are great for individual kids because it means that they won't get those serious diseases. But shots are great for the health of the country and world, too. How? When almost all kids have received these shots, it means that these illnesses don't have much of a chance to make anyone sick.

Because most kids in the United States get all their shots, you rarely meet anyone who has had diseases like measles or mumps. Your mom or dad has probably had to show your school that you've had all your shots. Schools and camps do this because they don't want the kids spreading or catching serious illnesses.

My Aching Arm!

OK, it's true. Getting a shot can a little. But the pain usually comes and goes pretty quickly. If you cry, don't worry about it. Lots of kids do.

To make shots easier to take, try bringing your favorite teddy bear or asking your mom or dad to hold your hand while you're getting a shot. Afterward, you may even get a little treat if you're brave! Maybe your doctor gives out stickers or your mom and dad will take you to the playground.

Sometimes after a shot, your arm will hurt, look red, or have a small bump where the needle went in. You also could have a fever. Your mom or dad can talk to the doctor about any problems you have. Usually, the pain goes away quickly or after you take some, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

It's OK if you don't like shots, but remember that they are your best shot at staying healthy!